Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal unveiled the month-long celebration drive for the 8th National Ayurveda Day, set to be celebrated on November 10, 2023. Ayurveda Day is a nationwide observance paying tribute to Lord Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda, and coincides with Dhanteras, a day dedicated to seeking the blessings of the Lord for good health, not only for oneself but for all.
This year’s Ayurveda Day carries a significant theme – “Ayurveda for One Health,” aligning with India’s G20 Presidency theme of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family). The focal theme is encapsulated in the tagline “Ayurveda for everyone on every day,” emphasizing the interconnectedness of human health with the environment, animals, and plants.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal stressed the importance of this year’s theme, stating that Ayurveda has the potential not only to promote human well-being but also to benefit the environment, plants, and animals. He spoke of a “Jan Sandesh, Jan Bhagidhari, and Jan Andolan for Jan Arogya” approach, highlighting the Ministry of Ayush’s commitment to promoting holistic health through Ayurveda.
The month-long celebration aims to raise awareness about Ayurveda across India, targeting students, farmers, and the general public. Various programs and activities centered around the theme will be conducted nationwide to educate people about Ayurveda’s potential in preventing and treating various health issues.
Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, shared that over 12,500 Ayush Health & Wellness Centers have been approved under the National Ayush Mission (NAM), with 8,095 already operational. These centers play a crucial role in bringing Ayurveda closer to the people.
The celebration drive includes an Exhibition cum Mini-Expo at Ayurveda Institutes, the dissemination of research study outcomes, medical camps, public awareness lectures for students and staff, distribution of medicinal plants to farmers, and various competitions to popularize Ayurveda among the general public. Additionally, events like “Run for Ayurveda” and “The Riders Rally” are planned to engage people of all ages.
Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Science (CCRAS), under the Ministry of Ayush, will be the coordinating agency for the Ayurveda Day programs in 2023, working alongside its 30 units spread across the country.
In line with India’s commitment to holistic well-being and sustainable living, the 8th Ayurveda Day promises to be a transformative celebration, promoting Ayurveda’s invaluable contributions to the health and harmony of all living beings and the environment.